Intussusception as a Rare Gastrointestinal Manifestation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Report of Two Cases and Literature Review

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder with lesser known diverse gastrointestinal manifestations, occurring in up to 40% - 50% of patients. Intussusception, however, remains an exceedingly rare complication, with fewer than 15 cases reported worldwide, often linked to mesenteric vasculitis or serving as an initial presentation. We present two patient cases highlighting the spectrum of this rarity: one as the inaugural manifestation leading to SLE diagnosis in a young male, and another as a complication in a post-kidney transplant female on immunosuppression, precipitated by an underlying malignancy. These cases underscore diagnostic challenges, the role of imaging, and the need for prompt multidisciplinary intervention. Literature review reveals predominance in young females, with management ranging from conservative immunosuppression to surgical resection. Clinicians should maintain high suspicion for SLE in unexplained adult intussusception to mitigate life-threatening outcomes.